What Happened This Year 1998

People Who Died in 1998

Consalvo Sanesi

Italian race car driver, Mille Miglia winner
Born
March 28th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1998 26 years ago — 87 years old

Achieved prominence as an Italian race car driver. Competed in prestigious events throughout the 1930s, showcasing skills on various race courses. Gained recognition for performances in endurance races, notably the Mille Miglia, where strategic driving and speed were essential. Had a successful partnership with Alfa Romeo, piloting their cars to multiple victories. Endured challenges of pre-World War II racing, contributing to the development of motorsport in Italy.

Continue Reading

Jerome Robbins

Choreographer of West Side Story
Born
October 11th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1998 26 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent American director, producer, and choreographer, contributed significantly to musical theater and ballet. Created iconic works including the choreography for "West Side Story" and directed productions such as "Fiddler on the Roof." Collaborated with the New York City Ballet and served as an artistic director for the company, influencing contemporary dance techniques. Burnished a reputation for innovative storytelling through dance, combining classical and modern styles to create engaging performances.

Continue Reading

Buffalo Bob Smith

Television host of Howdy Doody
Born
November 27th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
July 30th, 1998 26 years ago — 80 years old

An American actor and television host, gained prominence through the children's television show Howdy Doody. The show debuted in 1947 and featured a live audience of children along with puppet characters. Served as the show's primary host, engaging with the audience and guiding the narrative of each episode. His work in children's entertainment fostered a connection between television and youthful audiences during the mid-20th century.

Continue Reading

Eva Bartok

Actress from 'The Ladykillers'
Born
June 18th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1998 26 years ago — 71 years old

Born in Hungary, an actress gained prominence in the 1950s. Moved to England where notable roles in film and television emerged. Featured in significant productions, including 'The Ladykillers' alongside Alec Guinness. Starred in numerous films that showcased talent across various genres. Later transitioned to television, appearing in popular series, and continued to work in the industry for several decades.

Continue Reading

Shari Lewis

Puppeteer and television host of Lamb Chop
Born
January 17th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1998 26 years ago — 65 years old

An American actress, puppeteer, and television host, gained recognition through children's television programs. Notable work included the puppet character Lamb Chop, which became iconic in the 1960s. Created and starred in several shows, including 'The Shari Lewis Show' and 'Lamb Chop's Play-Along'. The engaging performances combined humor and education, earning acclaim from audiences and critics alike. In addition to television, contributions to children's entertainment included books and live performances.

Continue Reading

Alfred Schnittke

Composer and creator of polystylism
Born
November 24th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1998 26 years ago — 63 years old

Born in Germany and raised in Russia, significant contributions to contemporary classical music included the development of a style termed 'polystylism.' Schnittke's compositions often blended various musical styles and techniques, reflecting a complex relationship with the traditions of both Western and Russian music. His oeuvre encompassed symphonies, concertos, chamber music, and film scores, showcasing innovative structures and emotional depth. Schnittke's work gained international recognition and performed widely in major cultural venues.

Continue Reading

Yury Artyukhin

Colonel, engineer, astronaut, Soyuz 14
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1998 26 years ago — 68 years old

This individual served as a colonel in the Soviet Air Force and was a cosmonaut in the Soviet space program. He flew aboard Soyuz 14 in 1974, contributing to scientific research in space during a mission that lasted 14 days. Prior to spaceflight, this individual earned a degree in engineering and participated in various military aviation programs. The mission involved extensive work on the Salyut 7 space station and helped advance knowledge in the fields of space travel and engineering. This individual’s career in aerospace and military engineering paved the way for future advancements in these areas.

Continue Reading

Otto Kretschmer

German admiral and U-boat commander
Born
May 1st, 1912 112 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1998 26 years ago — 86 years old

An admiral in the German Navy, notable for command of U-99 during World War II. Achieved significant success in the Battle of the Atlantic, sinking numerous Allied ships. Became one of the most successful U-boat commanders, earning a reputation for tactical innovation in submarine warfare. After being captured in 1941, spent the remainder of the war as a prisoner. Post-war, contributed to naval strategy and operations in the Bundesmarine.

Continue Reading

Todor Zhivkov

Bulgarian politician and Head of State
Born
September 7th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1998 26 years ago — 86 years old

Served as the leader of Bulgaria for over 35 years, from 1954 to 1989. Oversaw the establishment of a one-party socialist state and maintained close ties with the Soviet Union. Implemented numerous economic and social policies aimed at modernization, influencing various aspects of Bulgarian life. Oversaw the country's participation in the Warsaw Pact and other Eastern Bloc initiatives. Resigned in the context of the political changes in Eastern Europe that led to the fall of communism.

Continue Reading